The Castelli Free Protect Race Bibshort was developed after Chris Froome requested a set of bibshorts that would offer greater protection in the early stages of grand tours, when every rider is vying for a place at the front of the peloton and crashes are a frequent occurrence.Castelli found inspiration for the bibshorts from an old trick used by track riders. Knowing that Lycra sliding on Lycra is the best way to prevent or reduce road rash on your hip, track cyclists would wear two pairs of shorts. Castelli has taken this idea and put an extra layer of Lycra over the hip and thigh panel meaning that you get the same fabric-on-fabric shear force that you get from wearing two pairs of shorts.The extra panel adds minimal weight and is made from a layer of Castelli’s Vortex fabric. An internal layer of stretch woven fabric furthers protection and is reinforced with a ripstop grid made from Dyneema – the same yarn used for rock climbing ropes, reinforcement in sails for the America Cup, and bullet proof vests – helping prevent the inner layer from ripping.The Castelli Free Protect Race Bibshort uses the construction and components as Castelli’s tried and tested Free Aero Race 4 Bibshort that has been tested and developed over millions of kilometres in the pro peloton. A mesh bib helps you stay cool and the Progetto X2 Air Seamless seat pad features generous padding making all-day rides no problem.The Castelli Free Protect Race Bibshort was made for the pros but every cyclist knows the risk of sliding out. Whether riding on gravel or smashing your local crits the added protection of the Castelli Free Protect Race Bibshort will give you the peace of mind needed to focus fully on your riding.Key Features:Double-layer side panels for extra protection in case of a fall,Ideal for gravel riding and crit racing,Developed in response to a request from Chris Froome for bibshorts that offered greater protection against road rash,Smooth layer of Vortex fabric backed by a stretch woven fabric that features a Dyneema ripstop grid,Mesh bib construction to help you keep cool,Same construction as Castelli’s top race shorts, the Free Aero Race 4 Bibshort,Flat-lock stitching,Progetto X2 Air Seamless seat pad,Temperature comfort range of 15° – 32°C,Weight 203g (Large).